scope:

Introduction

In case of a one-time possibly recurring shock, the stroke, force or deceleration reduction is targeted by means of conversion of impact energy (kinetic energy) of an impact mass into heat and, in addition, multiple into deformation energy and potential energy.

This objective is achieved through the following:

• elastic deformation
• plastic deformation
• hydraulic flow resistance by means of throttling restriction of liquids or gases
• friction between solid bodies

In case of shock reducing elements, the following can be distinguished:

• fixed-adjusted shock reducing elements for security applications with one-time impact load or in case of rare impact loads (emergency buffers), e. g. buffer with crane systems, impact posts with railway constructions, buffers in high-rack storage facilities, crash boxes with bumpers on motor vehicles
• self-compensating shock reducing elements (hydraulic buffer as self-compensating industrial shock absorbers) for strongly changeable impact masses and regular impact loads on production machines, handling devices and other units, with defined end locations and positions
• special applications, such as elevator brakes, buffers of railway stock

In the following, the elements with which the objectives can be achieved are designated as shock reducing elements. For individual shock reducing elements, the term buffer is frequently employed.